Boots Pharmacy

GP surgery, NHS24, and A&E at the RAH had all failed me with regards to getting a haematoma drained from my ear. They had all refused/were incapable to help. Since no one would do it I had to do it myself with a needle and syringe before the disfigurement becomes permanent.

Just wanted to get a cream for numbing the pain from the needle. Can get it over-the-counter at any pharmacy but was refused sale here. Explained the situation to the pharmacist on duty, who was not willing to help - just told me to send a complaint to the NHS health board. Rather unsympathetic with the issue in general. Called health board right after no response. In any case it could take weeks even months for a solution which is far too late. Terrific advice for an urgent issue!

Performed the procedure anyway - all options exhausted no other choice left. Didn't actually need the cream it but it would have been nice to have. Job done no problem.

Very concerned that the NHS has no provisions for carrying out such a relatively basic procedure but more so that such a simple and justified request for a cream was rejected. Mind you, I know of other Boots pharmacists in the past who were willing to help. Very disappointed on this occasion.